CCS Disability Action Pleased with Expansion of Service

CCS Disability Action Is
Pleased with the Expansion of the Intensive Wraparound
Service and the Halswell Review

CCS Disability
Action is pleased that an extra 110 students will now have
access to the Intensive Wrap-Around Service.

CCS
Disability Action’s Chief Executive, David Matthews, said
that the expansion of the Intensive Wrap-Around Service
meant that more students and families will have access to
support. More importantly, this support will be available
where students and families need it the most; in their local
community and at their local school.

“For a variety of
reasons, there will always be a number of students who
require more intensive support. What is important is that
this support is increasingly available in their local
community and schools. The community needs to include
everyone and the best way to do that is by ensuring all
students are included and supported in their local schools
with their peers.”

Mr Matthews was also satisfied with
the review of Halswell Residential College. The review
looked at the safety of the school for female students. CCS
Disability Action was involved in monitoring the review. Mr
Matthews hoped that the review would dispel the myths about
male students with disabilities.

“I was deeply
disappointed with some attitudes expressed about male
students with disabilities. Unfortunately, research does
show an increased risk of abuse for disabled children and
adults, but this risk is shared between males and females.
The students who attend Halswell Residential College are
vulnerable to abuse, regardless of their gender. What is
important is that student’s rights are protected and that
the right support is available to reduce the vulnerability
of students.”

Mr Matthews said that it was good that a
coeducation option was now available. Together with the
expansion of the Intensive Wrap-Around Service, more choice
and support is available to students and their families than
ever before.

“More choice and support is good for all
students and families. The key to including all students at
their local school is having the right support available.
Students, families and teachers all have to feel supported
and confident. I believe that Minister Parata has taken a
step in the right
direction.”

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